The big difference between moderate and authoritarian right

In the realm of political discourse, Matthew McManus's recent work stands out for its incisive analysis and thought-provoking insights into the nature of right-wing collectivism and conservatism. As a writer deeply engaged with contemporary political ideologies, I find McManus's arguments compelling and accurate in dissecting the complexities and contradictions within these movements.

McManus's analysis is relevant and crucial in understanding the recent radical shift within American conservatism. Historically, conservatism was seen as a philosophy of caution, moderation, and gradual reform. Figures like Edmund Burke and Bill Buckley were the embodiment of this approach, advocating for preserving societal structures through measured change. Burke's notion that "one must reform in order to conserve" and Buckley's stance of "standing athwart history, yelling stop" encapsulated a commitment to maintaining order and stability.

However, as McManus astutely points out, the emergence of Donald Trump has been a key catalyst in fundamentally altering this landscape. Trump's ascent to power and the subsequent transformation of the conservative movement have led to a shift towards a more radical and militant stance. This new conservatism is marked by its association with extremist elements, such as QAnon supporters and the participants of the Unite the Right rally. McManus accurately highlights how the rhetoric within conservative media has become increasingly angry, paranoid, and insurrectionary, with frequent calls for "counter-revolution" against perceived liberal hegemony.

One of the key strengths of McManus's analysis lies in his ability to meticulously trace the intellectual roots of this radical shift. He delves into how prominent conservative intellectuals have shifted their rhetoric to align with this new direction. For instance, Chris Rufo's book, America's Cultural Revolution, places the blame for societal issues on left-wing intellectuals and calls for a dramatic "counter-revolution." Glenn Ellmers of the Claremont Institute argues that "Conservatism is No Longer Enough," advocating for a fundamental refounding of America to restore its original values.

McManus's exploration of the core convictions of the political right is particularly illuminating. He challenges the notion that conservatism is fundamentally about moderation and the cautious management of change. Instead, he argues that the right rejects modernist ideals of equality and liberty for all. This perspective is supported by historical conservative thinkers like F.A. Hayek, who, in his essay "Why I Am Not A Conservative," argued that conservatism is about recognizing and protecting the role of superior individuals in society. James Fitzjames Stephen, a 19th-century British philosopher, similarly emphasized the importance of hierarchy and obedience over unbridled liberty.
In highlighting these intellectual roots, McManus provides a deeper understanding of the modern right's motivations. Figures like Patrick Deneen and Yoram Hazony, who call for significant regime changes to dismantle liberalism, reflect this rejection of egalitarian ideals. Even more extreme voices, like the Bronze Age Pervert, advocate for authoritarianism or, worse, to replace what they see as a failed liberal order.

McManus's analysis helps us understand that political rights have shifted from a stance of cautious conservatism to one of radical change, driven by a desire to supplant liberalism with a new hierarchical order. This shift is a reaction to the perceived long-term dominance of liberal and leftist ideologies, prompting calls for significant regime changes to restore a preferred social hierarchy.

Therefore, Matthew McManus's insights into right-wing collectivism and conservatism are valid and accurate. His thorough exploration of modern conservatism's historical and intellectual roots provides a crucial framework for understanding its current radical trajectory. As we navigate the evolving political landscape, McManus's work serves as a vital resource for comprehending the deeper motivations and implications of the contemporary right.

Thanks for reading. You can support and reward me via: 
Pay Pal — lauvlad89@gmail.com
Algo — NCG6LBALQHENQUSR77KOR6SS42FGK54BZ5L2HFDSBGQVLGYIOVWYDXFDI4
ADA — addr1q9vfs6nqz4xmtnpljwhv4tukyskd2g7enxd87rpugkwwvfun5pnla5d5tes2mvurrc77e7837yd0scrfk063qlha8wgs8d4ynz
Bitcoin 3HbxyDXE9MhNQ8RqsirqgYvFupQzh5Xby2
ETH — 0x8982cdb97bd23f092f78a16a4fc93c5c4607a285
Seeds — vladlausevic
Skycoin — ZxjhWMJRbTNCRQzy5MekZzH4fhdWFCqBP8
Tezos — tz1QrRzkTAKuPKF8dmGW6c1ScEHBUGvoiJBM